Pittsburgh in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

The Menace of the Iron Horse

Great Railroad Strike of 1877

circa 2007

1. The Menace of the Iron Horse Marker

Inscription. Between 1865 and 1880, the railroad system grew rapidly, tripling in size and connecting urban areas throughout the country. Generally unchecked, railroad tracks cut through the heart of cities, with little concern for the best interests of residents and local business. Thirty-five-ton locomotives barreled down densely populated streets that ten years earlier saw only foot traffic and horse-drawn buggies. In 1876 alone, the Erie Railroad reported 61 deaths and 53 injuries among non-railroad workers.

Railroad traffic was particularly disruptive to the lives of women, whose social networks and daily routines revolved around street life. Children, who made playgrounds of city streets, were also increasingly vulnerable. As The Great Strike took hold throughout the country, people from all walks of life joined in solidarity with workers. In Pittsburgh, men, women and children alike vented anger at the railroad, which degraded the lives of many to create wealth for a few.

Erected 2007 by the Howling Mob Society.

Location. 40° 27.25′ N, 79° 58.978′ W. Marker is in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in Allegheny County. Marker is at the intersection of Railroad Street and 23rd Street on Railroad Street. Touch for map

By the Howling Mob Society, used with permission, circa 2007

2. The Menace of the Iron Horse Marker

. Marker is in this post office area: Pittsburgh PA 15222, United States of America.

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. This page originally submitted on January 1, 2010. This page has been viewed 1,106 times since then and 16 times this year. Photos:1. submitted on January 5, 2010. 2. submitted on January 1, 2010. • Kevin W. was the editor who published this page.